U.S. to Resume Food Aid After Somalia Acknowledges Disruptions to WFP Operations  

MOGADISHU, Somalia – The United States announced it will resume World Food Program (WFP) food distribution in Somalia following the Federal Government’s acknowledgment of its role in disrupting aid operations, including U.S.-funded assistance. The move comes after Mogadishu confirmed that all WFP commodities affected by port expansion in the capital have now been returned.

In a statement, U.S. Foreign Assistance said: “The United States acknowledges the Federal Government of Somalia for taking responsibility for its actions affecting World Food Program (WFP) operations, including U.S.-funded assistance. Following this statement, we will resume WFP food distribution while continuing to review our broader assistance posture in Somalia. The Trump Administration maintains a firm zero-tolerance policy for waste, theft, or diversion of U.S. resources.”

The Somali Foreign Ministry expressed regret over the incident, noting that it has provided the WFP with a larger, more suitable warehouse within the Mogadishu Port area to ensure secure and uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian aid. The government pledged to strengthen coordination with the WFP and international donors, uphold transparency, and review the circumstances surrounding the disruption.

The suspension of aid followed U.S. accusations that Somali officials had destroyed a U.S.-funded WFP warehouse and illegally seized 76 metric tons of food intended for vulnerable communities. Washington had emphasized that any resumption of assistance would depend on accountability and remedial action by Somali authorities.

Somalia continues to face an escalating humanitarian crisis, driven by prolonged drought, conflict, and recurrent disease outbreaks. According to the UN, an estimated 4.8 million people will require humanitarian aid in 2026, a slight decline from 2025, reflecting stricter criteria rather than improved conditions.

On Monday, Somalia, the UN, and humanitarian partners launched the 2026 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan, seeking $852 million to support 2.4 million people in urgent need of lifesaving assistance and protection. Aid workers welcomed the resumption of WFP distribution, stressing that accountability and robust logistics are critical to reaching communities struggling with hunger and hardship.

GAROWE ONLINE